🔬 Space, Health & Nature: NASA's Moon Tests, Mental Health Eye Scans & Climate Science
Welcome to Science News Daily, your daily dose of the latest breakthroughs and discoveries in science.
Today's top stories showcase remarkable developments across space exploration, health sciences, and environmental research.
NASA is making significant strides in lunar exploration, conducting crucial tests for future Moon landings. Engineers have completed over 30 tests using 3D-printed rocket motors to simulate how spacecraft from SpaceX and Blue Origin will interact with lunar dust and surface conditions during landing.
In astronomical news, NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope is preparing for an ambitious mission to map billions of galaxies and search for rogue planets. This groundbreaking project, developed with input from over a thousand scientists worldwide, will help unlock some of the universe's deepest mysteries.
Meanwhile, the Hubble Space Telescope celebrates its 35th anniversary, marking three and a half decades of revolutionary discoveries about black holes, dark energy, and distant worlds. Its stunning images have brought the wonders of space exploration to people around the globe.
In health science news, researchers have made exciting progress in early disease detection. A simple eye test might soon help predict mental illness, as scientists have discovered that genetic risk for schizophrenia is linked to thinner retinas. This finding could lead to earlier detection and treatment of mental health conditions.
Environmental researchers have determined exactly how much meat consumption is sustainable for our planet. The magic number? Just 9 ounces per week. This precise figure gives us clear guidance on how to balance our dietary needs with environmental preservation.
In a fascinating discovery from the animal kingdom, scientists have identified the genetic code responsible for the striking patterns in corn snakes. A single gene controls these beautiful variations, offering new insights into how nature creates its living works of art.
Finally, climate change researchers have found an unexpected connection between bird intelligence and climate vulnerability. Contrary to previous assumptions, some birds with larger brains may actually be more at risk from climate change due to their specialized climate requirements.
That's all for today's science news roundup. Join us tomorrow for more fascinating discoveries from the world of science. This is Science News Daily, signing off.
